Preparing for International Health Experiences

At some point in their careers, many health professionals and students wish to engage in overseas work. Learning from other systems, people and cultures is invaluable and in some cases life changing. This book is a unique resource that offers necessary insights into making the most of the experience, from pre-departure training through to return orientation. It provides information on navigating the legalities and bureaucracies of international medical training and gives insights into cultural and language competencies, including how to be ethical and deferential in the exchange of situational knowledge. Preparing for International Health Experiences is a must-read for any healthcare student considering volunteering, doing mission or practical work abroad. It covers specific medical professions from paediatrics to surgery, and allied disciplines such as dentistry and nursing. Its practical tips and consideration of ethical issues will be valued by readers of different levels and experience.

Akshaya Neil Arya is a family doctor and was founding Director of the Global Health Office at Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry at Western University in Canada. He has also taught Global Health to Master in Public Health students at the University of Waterloo and to medical students at McMaster University where he is an Assistant Clinical Professor. Dr. Arya has had experience in Latin America, Africa and Asia as a student, teacher and guest lecturer. He is currently president of Canadian Physicians for Research and Education in Peace (CPREP).

Section I Putting Global Health Electives in Context Ch. 1 Introduction- Why a Practical Guide? Ch 2 Should I stay or should I go? Ch. 3 Maximizing Benefits and Minimizing Harms of IHEs on Trainees, Programs and Hosts Ch 4 Doing Your Homework: Choosing an Organization, Project, or Opportunity in Global Health Ch. 5 Mentorship Ch 6 Technology and Social Media Ch. 7 Preparing to go Abroad Section II Aspects of Pre-Departure preparation Ch. 8 Staying Safe while Abroad Ch. 9 Travel Health Considerations Ch. 10 Seeking Cultural Competence Ch. 11 Communicating Effectively Ch. 12 Ethics: Four Key Questions You Need to Ask Section III Specific Professions Ch. 13 Emergency Medicine Ch. 14 Pediatrics and Child Health Ch. 15 Obstetrics and Gynecology Ch. 16 Midwifery: "With Women" Across the Globe Ch. 17 Nursing during Global Health Experiences Ch. 18 Disability and Rehabilitative Experiences Ch. 19 Developing and Preparing appropriate Social Work Placements Ch. 20 Surgical Team Experiences Ch. 21 Dentistry and Oral Health Ch. 22 Eyecare Ch 23 Global Public Health: Preparation and Training Ch. 24 Global Health Research: Practical Guidelines Section IV Moving on Ch 25 Returning Home:Debriefing and Managing Reverse Culture Shock Ch 26 Moving Forward